Teri Smalley

Why did you choose this field?

My first grade teacher genuinely cared not only about our education, but also our development as healthy and happy individuals. After a year with her, my career choice never faltered.

What or who most inspires you?

My mother taught me to believe in myself and make my dreams come true. My children inspire me to teach them that they are capable of their dreams as well!

What was your favorite subject in school?

History! Where we came from, where we are, our journey in between and into the future fascinates me. Me encanta el español, también. Es un idioma hermoso.

Why Teachwell?

Choices! Teachwell provides information, opportunity, and support to their students. We provide our students with the knowledge, desire, and societal skills to choose a life that's better.

What keeps you motivated?

Every day is a gift. I choose to make the best of and appreciate every single one! I hope to inspire my students to do the same.

How do you hope to make a difference?

I want every student to learn it is fully within the realm of possibility for him to choose his future. All is attainable with effort and "ganas".

Goals for the future?

We hope to retire in Costa Rica. We've led three student tours coast to coast across this small tract of land that is home to so much diversity of life! We would love to spend our golden years teaching in their schools.

What is your background? Experience, degrees, skills, etc?

This will be my 15th year in the classroom! I love the smell of new school supplies in late summer. Thirteen of my fourteen years were spent teaching a variety of social studies, English, reading, and Spanish classes to 7th grade students through seniors!

People would be surprised to know that I . . .

was the tallest student in my 4th grade class...and I grew nevermore!